The Elven Stones: Orphan: The Elven Stones, #3

By P A Wilson

A final Stone of Power waits to be found. Old terrors bar her way. New enemies struggle to defeat her.

Willowvine faces the final quest with Springheart and Tom by her side. One more Stone of Power to be restored to the Guardian and she will get her dream. No one will stop her from joining Elven society.

The Stone of Orphan was taken so long ago that no one can remember the story, only that it meant orphans were bad luck and so must be exiled. The quest takes Willowvine and her companions on a search for clues that leads her to the one place she swore never to revisit.

Attacked by bandits, betrayed by companions, Willowvine despairs of finding the Stone and freeing the orphans.

If you love stories of impossible quests facing overwhelming opposition, you'll love the The Elven Stones: Orphan.

Grab a copy today and ride with Willowvine to the end of the world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Perry Wilson Books
• Release date: Mar 8, 2019
• ISBN: 9781927669556

P A Wilson

Perry Wilson is a Canadian author based in Vancouver, BC who has big ideas and an itch to tell stories. Having spent some time on university, a career, and life in general, she returned to writing in 2008 and hasn't looked back since (well, maybe a little, but only while parallel parking). She is a member of the Vancouver Independent Writers Group, The Royal City Literary Arts Society and The Federation of BC Writers. Perry has self-published several novels. She writes the Madeline Journeys, a fantasy series about a high-powered lawyer who finds herself trapped in a magical world, the Quinn Larson Quests, which follows the adventures of a wizard named Quinn who must contend with volatile fae in the heart of Vancouver, and the Charity Deacon Investigations, a mystery thriller series about a private eye who tends to fall into serious trouble with her cases, and The Riverton Romances, a series based in a small town in Oregon, one of her favorite states. Her stand-alone novels are Breaking the Bonds, Closing the Circle, and The Dragon at The Edge of The Map. Visit her website http://pawilson.ca/ and sign up for the newsletter subscription to get news on upcoming releases and book recommendations. Check her out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorPAWilson She tweets between writing and creating on-line courses. Follow her @perryawilson for odd comments and retweets.

Book preview

Chapter 1

The council members were long gone, but Willowvine felt their presence in the echoes of doubt that came in quiet moments. Every second they delayed in finding the Orphan Stone reinforced the fear it would be forgotten. That only she cared to place it back with its siblings. In her head, she knew it couldn’t be true, but her heart was so used to feeling left behind she couldn’t keep it hopeful.

The previous night, she’d been poring over records from Leafcreek’s boxes of scrolls in the attic. The new Guardians would be clearing and organizing forever, she thought. Now, she stood at the window, looking across the sea toward the mainland. The last Stone of Power was there, she was sure.

Willowvine, Springheart’s voice broke into her reverie. Come down for breakfast. It is time to talk.

She heard a weariness in his voice; it hadn’t been there only weeks before. Was he tired of these quests?

She turned from the window and slipped into her shoes. If this turned out to be another session of speculation and delay, she would go for a run around the island afterward. Perhaps that would clear the gloom from her spirit.

The kitchen glowed with the early sunshine. Tom lifted the kettle from the stove; the boy had grown in the last few weeks. When they’d first met, he’d been shorter than she was, and his eagerness for adventure was evident in everything about him. She still saw the excitement in his eyes when he talked about their times on the road, but his recent experiences had darkened the joy. And now she had to look up a little to meet his eyes. Humans grew so fast.

Leafcreek sat wrapped in an intricately embroidered shawl despite the heat, which made her want to shuck her tunic for a light shirt. The old elf faded with every day that passed. Willowvine had never seen an elf die of old age, and this fading away didn’t feel right. She renewed her vow to find the Orphan Stone before Leafcreek left them. He deserved to see his dream fulfilled before he closed his eyes forever. He wanted all three Stones returned to their rightful place in the center of the maze, and she would no longer delay the final mission.

It is time to decide how this journey will commence, Springheart said. His long hair was tied back in a braid today, more formal than usual. Was he practicing for when they would rejoin Elven society? Or was she seeing things which didn’t exist; perhaps he was as impatient as she to start the final leg of the journey.

Finally, she said, accepting a plate from Tom and filling it. We could leave tomorrow.

And where are you headed? Leafcreek asked. Have your midnight studies revealed a clue?

It must be on the mainland, she said. It’s the only place big enough to hide something like that.

Because we found the Stone of Abundance there? Springheart asked. We can’t rush off on a hunch.

The Stone of Family was there too, she said.

Only because Maynard planned to sell it to the council, Springheart reminded her.

Fine, we don’t know where it is. We can’t sit here forever either, she said, regretting the tone but not willing to apologize. She took a bite of a bread roll stuffed with butter and nuts to keep from speaking.

This will not be a simple puzzle to find an object, Leafcreek said. I think we need to bring a team together. One we have vetted, rather than one that rushed into being. I would like to avoid the situation we faced with Waterfeather. I am sorry to say, his cult has not been uprooted.

It would be nice to make sure any companions are pleasant, Willowvine said. Waterfeather being a saboteur was bad enough, but he didn’t have to be such an ass.

They all chuckled at her joke. Maybe she could keep her eagerness to leave under control by entertaining everyone.

It will not take too long, Leafcreek said. I think a healer who will teach young Tom is a good idea. Perhaps someone who is also a scholar?

If I could learn more about my powers, maybe I could learn to be a healer for real, Tom said. I would be happy to just heal animals but having the skill for people might save a life or two. He blushed and turned his attention to his tea.

You are a healer. It means you have skill with all forms of life, Springheart said. Having a seasoned one along would help you develop your talent. It is unfortunate that Callisra is not available.

We will find another, Leafcreek said. We also need to arrange for your supplies.

Do not tire yourself, Lakewing said as she strode into the kitchen. Her years with the army were evident in the way she held herself at attention, and in the strong muscles of her arms and legs. The scar on her brow marked her as someone who had fought; not all the soldiers had. Grasshorn and I will carry out your instruction, Master Leafcreek.

The new Guardians would be leaving on the next tide. Willowvine was not sure they would have time to do anything Leafcreek needed for the quest. They had their own tasks.

We will arrange for travel gear when we arrive in the City. We’ll leave it with Zerenia, at her inn. Lakewing held up her hand to forestall any argument. We will ask for recommendations for a healer at the Embassy, perhaps at others, not just the Elven one.

That is more than I could expect, Leafcreek said. He put his tea mug on the table and picked up a berry. He examined it as he continued, Now we have the job of finding the first steps.

Grasshorn is delivering our baggage to the ship, Lakewing said. He will return soon. Please think about what else we can do before we leave the City for our homes.

It felt like too little to say thank you, but that was all Willowvine could bring herself to do in the wake of Lakewing’s kindness.

Don’t concern yourself, Lakewing said. If I could come along, I would. I sometimes miss the excitement of a campaign. But I must make my arrangements to move here. I would be happy to find all three Stones of Power in place before I take on the role of Guardian with Grasshorn.

Willowvine paced back and forth while Tom and Springheart sat comfortably on the couch in front of the fire.

The more we talk, she said. The longer it takes for us to get started. I know we can’t just run at it. But we can’t be at a standstill either.

She leaned against the stone hearth, feeling the warmth soak into her back. The weather was changing, and soon travel would be too difficult, if not impossible.

Complaining will not get us started. Springheart waved her to settle beside him. It’s not just the journey we must plan for. If your hopes come true, there will be a new future for us as well.

Willowvine looked over to Tom. As usual, he kept his thoughts to himself. She walked away from the fire and plopped onto the couch. Whining about not starting the quest didn’t bring any satisfaction, but she didn’t know what else to do. Well, what are the things we absolutely need?

We already arranged that through Lakewing and Grasshorn, Springheart said. They will leave soon, so she’s right, it is a good time to think if we have forgotten anything.

There is a lot we didn’t ask for, Willowvine answered, trying to keep the frustration out of her voice. If we knew everything we needed, we would be on the boat with them, or at least on the next one. Tom, what do you need in order for us to start?

The boy squirmed in his seat. Willowvine had to remind herself that though he still looked like a young human, the last mission had forced him into an uncomfortable adulthood.

If there is travel food and a bedroll, I don’t need anything else. For the horses, we need feed and blankets. There’s a few supplies I can pick up at the stable when we arrive on the mainland to deal with damaged hooves or scratches and scrapes.

Just like Tom to not think of anything beyond the practical needs. Willowvine decided she would spend some time teaching him to be a little more selfish as they rode. We promised a teacher, and it is being arranged.

Springheart nudged her. If we were to leave today, what direction would we go?

She jumped up from the couch and started pacing again. Exactly! We’re doing nothing to find the clues we need.

Master Leafcreek will find someone for us. Tom stood. I’ll make some tea. It’s been a while since breakfast, and perhaps some snacks will help us think. He left the room before Willowvine could stop him.

Leafcreek is so frail, she said. Do you think he has the energy for this search?

We will provide him with what he needs, Springheart said. I know you’re impatient, but if we take a little time now, it may save days on the journey.

I feel so useless, Willowvine admitted. Every day that we wait for what we need feels like a year.

When Leafcreek wakens, we will ask him how he intends to find us a scholar. I assume you don’t wish to rush the process and end up with another Waterfeather. He patted the couch again. Come sit down. All that pacing is not helping you manage your impatience. I’m sure we will be on our way in the next day or two.

Willowvine shrugged off her need to start the quest, shaking her hands to try to release the tension she could feel building. This time she sat more gracefully on the couch. Knowing Springheart was right didn’t make it any easier to ignore the drive within her to finish their quest.

When you have your freedom, Springheart said, I mean, when your actions free all the orphans, what are your plans?

Not just my actions, she said. I can’t think of the future. I’m trying not to rely on the Council keeping their word. Or, perhaps only keeping their word in a strict sense, with no generosity of spirit.

I understand, given our history with them, that you do not wish to get your hopes up. But this quest will be over whether they agree to accept orphans back into society or not. When we are no longer saving the world, what will we do?

Willowvine massaged her temples, hoping it would distract her mind from trying to plan without any information. I can’t talk about it, Springheart.

He stood. Then perhaps I will leave you to meditate.

Willowvine watched as he intercepted Tom at the doorway. She wasn’t hungry, so missing the tea and snacks would not be a burden. But sitting here in this cozy space when she wished to go as quickly as she could to start her quest was not helping to clear her mind.

She crossed the room and took her cloak from the hook beside the front door. Some time alone walking the island might be the best for her.

The walk had done her good. The air was bracing rather than cold, and the constant wind reached in and pulled her doubts and fears away.

She opened the door to Leafcreek’s cottage, realizing that soon she would begin to think of it as something other than that. She heard voices in the living room.

We could linger in the City for a day or two, Grasshorn said.

That is not necessary, Springheart said. The sooner you are on your way, the sooner you will be back. If we need to, we can spend more time in the City plotting our own course.

Annoyed at Springheart’s refusal of whatever they were offering, Willowvine tossed her cloak onto the hook and strode into the living room. Leafcreek was curled up on the couch that she had flounced on earlier. He was wrapped in a warm blanket, looking more frail than this morning. Lakewing and Grasshorn were standing by the fire, their travel bags at their feet.

I’m glad I didn’t miss you, Willowvine said. What was this offer I heard you making? If she could override Springheart’s words, Willowvine would have them spend as much time as possible in the City.

We suggested doing a little research in the embassy library. It might save you valuable time. Lakewing stepped away from the hearth. We could leave any information we found with Zerenia.

Willowvine was about to agree when Springheart caught her gaze. From his position by the window he glanced briefly at Leafcreek and then back at her. She felt a flush of shame flood her cheeks. If the new Guardians were not back soon, the Stones of Power might be left without a protector.

Thank you for the offer, she said. It is probably better we do our own research. Without knowing what to ask, I think doing the work itself may shed light on the knowledge we seek.

Do not fear that I shall die any moment. Leafcreek gave a dry chuckle. But there is wisdom in Willowvine’s words. And I would guess any notes you leave would not satisfy their curiosity. That the work, rather than speeding their quest, would only delay yours.

Willowvine’s cheeks burned hotter. Now it felt like he was saying she didn’t trust the two new Guardians, which was far from the truth.

Lakewing laughed and picked up her baggage. Then we will go. We will send a bird with confirmation of what we left with Zerenia. I hope you’re able to depart soon; it must be difficult to wait for this last quest to start. I look forward to seeing you at the ceremony to replace the Stone of Orphan.

When they were alone, Willowvine glanced around, realizing she had not seen Tom.

The boy is at the stable, Leafcreek said. He has gained a reputation. There was an accident, and the horse needed his attention. The stableman sent for him without any reservations about his lack of years.

Willowvine wondered how much in demand Tom would be after receiving training from someone skilled in healing all manner of creatures. It’s likely best that he is not here while we do our research. It must be boring to watch us scry.

Yes. For him it would just be watching us bent over a bowl of water. Springheart stoked the fire before turning back to Leafcreek. If you’re feeling strong enough, I suggest we have a little food and then begin our search.

Willowvine was relieved that someone else took on the role of nagging to get started. She offered to set up lunch and left the room.

Chapter 2

She filled the scrying bowl with clear water from the spring near Leafcreek’s home. This felt like they were taking the first step on the quest for the Orphan Stone. The frustrations of the morning still niggled in the back of her mind, but she knew she could quiet them enough to help Leafcreek reach his friend.

She carried the bowl into the warm living room. Leafcreek, sitting on the floor supported by cushions and warmed by the fire, beckoned her.

Springheart will be back soon, he said. Let us see if we can center your thoughts. I would like it if you could contact Treepond.

She is your friend, Willowvine said as she placed the bowl in front of Leafcreek. She is an important person, too important to answer my call.

Leafcreek smiled. You will find that is not true. He reached across the bowl for her hands. You may need her help along the journey. I also think you need to become closer to other elves.

It’s not my choice. They tend to avoid me.

Perhaps, but Treepond is different. He must have seen the reluctance on her face because he added, "If you wish to join Elven society, you cannot expect others to

Reviews for The Elven Stones

[rita9shaw · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I honestly loved this series! It's more about different races, prejudices, missing artifacts, than any romance. The story is just very well written! Enjoy!